The academic area of diplomacy focuses on a variety of topics and different ways to resolve conflict. Students may learn about cultural diplomacy; communication strategies; political, economic and psychological strategies; leadership; and intelligence and counterintelligence.

Requirements for the PhD program often involve the student having already obtained a Master’s degree. Additionally, a thesis or dissertation primarily consisting of original academic research must be submitted. In some countries, this work may even need to be defended in front of a panel.